Public Health urges vaccination as whooping cough increases

The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health urges the community to take preventative measures to protect themselves against respiratory illnesses. There has been a surge in pertussis this year compared to last year in the county, with the total number of cases nearly tripling.

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a serious and highly contagious respiratory infection that spreads easily from person to person through respiratory droplets. Symptoms of pertussis can last up to 10 weeks and may include:

• Runny or stuffed-up nose
• Low-grade fever (less than 100.4°F) or no fever
• High-pitched “whoop” sound while breathing in after coughing
• Vomiting during or after coughing fits
• Fatigue following coughing fits
• Difficulty sleeping
• Breathing struggles
• Possible rib fractures from severe coughing
• Cyanosis (bluish color of lips, skin or nail beds)

Infants under 12 months, specifically newborns, are most at risk, so pregnant individuals are highly encouraged to get their Tdap vaccine. It is recommended for individuals to stay up to date on their Tdap and DTaP vaccines as low vaccination uptake, particularly among children in San Bernardino County, further increases the risk of community spread.

“Infants are especially vulnerable to severe disease, which is why timely vaccination is so important,” said San Bernardino County Health Officer Dr. Sharon Wang. “A single dose of Tdap during pregnancy can help protect newborns before they’re old enough to be vaccinated.”

Residents are encouraged to ensure their families are up to date on their Tdap and DTaP vaccinations. Additional preventative measures include practicing hand hygiene, covering your coughs and sneezes, staying home when sick, and seeking medical care for suspected pertussis. Schedule your whooping cough vaccine today at your local pharmacy or primary care provider. Visit myturn.ca.gov to book your Tdap or DTaP vaccine.